DISC

Which DISC profile are you?

In 1928, a Harvard trained psychologist working at Columbia University, William Moulton

Marston, Ph.D. based much of his life work on studying and enhancing his 4 Quadrant model. His book entitled The Emotions of Normal People outlined his theories and became the foundation for modern DISC assessments. Marston introduced the definitions of DISC.

DISC is an acronym for:

Dominance – relating to control, power and assertiveness.

Influence – relating to social situations and communication.

Steadiness– relating to patience, persistence, and thoughtfulness.

Compliance – relating to structure and organization.

The assessment asks how you would respond in a number of situations to identify your behaviour, but also incorporates the fact that people exhibit different styles in different environments.DISC theory and assessment tools have stood the test of time, passing validation studies from the most prestigious learning institutes in the world.

It’s important to note that every profile has its own strengths and weaknesses and all are equally capable of success in their own fields.

A DISC Assessment is not a test, so it is impossible to fail. So what does a DISC assessment measure?

DISC assessments measure your different levels of each of the four DISC Factors:

Dominance: Your need for control and your source of ambition. Whenever you are feeling self-motivated, you are using your 'D' factor.

Influence: Your need for communication and your source of persuasion. Whenever you are feeling talkative, you are using your 'I' factor.

Steadiness: Your need for planning and your source of thoughtfulness. When you are being strategic or go out of your way to help someone, you are using your 'S' factor.

Compliance: Your need for structure and your source of organization. When you become extremely focused on completing your tasks, you are using your 'C' factor.

To give you an idea of the different profiles, here are some famous faces in the DISC profile:

are the Compliance personality type also known as The Analyzers. And then they’ll tell you the result isn’t accurate.

In general, “C” people can offer precise details about almost anything. They like to follow rules, both in their professional and personal life. And that’s a good thing because it brings them stability, an aspect they treasure. Because of the fact that they are analytical and systematical, they are really good problem solvers! When focused on solving a task, they get very creative because they see details other people miss.

Such individuals are usually peaceful and adaptable. They assess new situations objectively and approach them with tact. As a result, they minimise risks. Don’t expect to go bungee jumping…on the spot, with someone who fits a “C” personality type! They won’t take that chance!

Conscientious people like being dealt with in a reserved, formal manner. For them, it’s a matter of respect and recognition. As managers, they have an “all-hands-on-deck” attitude that gets the job done and has the wow effect. Because they like being right, they spend time researching every aspect of a situation. That leads to very high standards for themselves and for the people around them.

Like the “S” personality type, this one is also averse to change. It will prefer sticking to methods that have proved successful in the past, instead of trying something new. The difference here is how they react to confrontational situations. “S” people give in and comply with expectations, while “C’s” do anything in their power to avoid it.

Ok. But how to get along with a “Thinker”?

do not criticise

offer precise information

respect their need to be alone

they are instinctive organizers, so… let them organize

do not generalise; it’s very offensive

Be able to recognize these types of behaviour in a “C” person!

calmness

need to double- or triple- check

saying it like it is (they are, in fact, the reality anchor of the group)

difficulty in expressing feelings

little social interaction

According to Integrity Works Coaching, 15-20% of the population identifies with this personality type.

Remember … if you have strong C-Cautious traits (or are in “C-mode”):

Don’t overdo details. You like details. You are good at details. That is terrific. The fact is that many people are not detail-oriented or prefer not to spend the mental energy it takes to process information. Some people get “information overload” very quickly. It is not always easy to know how much detail is “just right.” It’s usually better to be concise and summarize the main idea of what you are trying to communicate. At that point you can ask if the other person has more questions. That way, you are giving the other person an opportunity to let you know if they have enough detail to satisfy them. The mindset of some people is “I just need an answer, I don’t need an explanation.” That is not how your mind works, but it is how the mind of many others work.

Remember the person, not just the task. C-personality styles are mainly task-oriented. That usually means that the task at hand often becomes the highest priority – even when there are also implications related to people that are involved. You can see where this is going. Always be aware of and considerate of those around you so that you can have more balance in life. It is rarely worth accomplishing a task if another person feels left out, unappreciated or not considered in the process.

Smile! Yes, you can relax. Smiling will make you feel better and will make those around you feel more comfortable as well. Suggestion: Try smiling each time you meet someone today and watch how they respond. I think you will be amazed at how many of them smile back or respond in some positive way. They will wonder what you are up to! If they say, “what are you smiling about?,” just say, “I know something you don’t!” It will be our little secret.

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Do you know those memes- “Keep calm and carry on”, “Keep calm and chase your dreams”, "Keep calm and grow a moustache” ,etc, etc? Yeah…the whole “keep calm” thing must have been invented by an “S” person! They’re the only ones who can actually be that calm! And can you believe that 30-35% of the population is like that?

The Supportive or Stable kind, is, just as its name suggests, down-to-earth, relaxed and composed. You won’t get emotions spiking out of this character! So, if you’re looking for someone who is balanced, safe and reliable, look no further! People who have this personality type are very supportive when it comes to their friends’ needs. They will be the first ones willing to help, even if it puts them in a somewhat tight spot.

“S” people are usually regarded as good employees because they are able to do routine work with care and patience. Furthermore, they are good at multi-tasking and meeting deadlines. At the same time, though, they can easily get lost in their desire to help others and therefore, lose sight of what’s important.

When taken out of their comfort zone, “S” people react badly. So give them time to adjust to change. Connected to this is another attribute- passivity. Because such individuals wish to avoid conflicts, they don’t face the situation head on and so, end up experiencing frustration and resentment. These people can hold a grudge, especially if they see you taking credit for their hard work!

Next, we have some tips on how to build a good relationship with a Steady person:

be clear and offer specifics; don’t digress!

recognise their loyalty and service

no sudden movements

no pressure

show openness instead of coming off as aggressive or competitive

What kind of behaviour should you foresee? Well…

keeping calm and carrying on…

a real team player

friendly with colleagues and supervisors

difficulty in prioritising

highly resistant to change

Remember … if you have strong S-Supportive traits (or are in “S-mode”):

Be Confident! You may already be confident in many ways, but it can also be helpful to convey your confidence to others. When you are sure of yourself (and show it), then others can better understand you. Your thoughts and feelings are just as important as anyone else’s are. There is nothing wrong with being firm at times or saying “no” when necessary. It may feel uncomfortable to do so, but you will be helping yourself and everyone else by communicating more openly.

Challenges are OK! Most people do not like challenges or problems. You probably do not either. However, challenges are normal and part of everyday life. They actually help us to become stronger, more resolute, more creative and more solution-oriented. In other words, challenges help us grow. If you can view challenges as being more of a friend than an enemy, then you will be more able to face challenges when they comethem. The path to a better situation is almost always through a challenge rather than around one.

FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real! We all know that fear is real. The point here is that most of what we fear is not based on reality. Most of what we fear is based on what could happen yet never comes to pass. So, rather than focusing on what is not real or what is only hypothetical, choose to focus on what is reality. Most of what we fear is only imagined or based on the unknown. What is true now? Do not let irrational feelings about the future control what you do today. Take one day at a time .

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In through the door comes Influence… And as it’s name suggests, it actually does influence other people! People who identify with this typology are bubbly, energetic beings who light up the room when they come in. They inspire, energize and like doing activities that involve a lot of people. They are, by default, the best entertainers. At the same time though, the spotlight can get to their heads, so if you’re looking to befriend an “I”, then you must remember this.

When I’m down, I call my “I” person. Why? I’ll give you 5 reasons: reason #1 – they genuinely like being around people; reason #2- they are open and emotionally honest, so that makes their advice one you can count on; reason #3 – by being optimistic, they manage to lift your spirits; reason #4 – it’s like they were born to give motivational speeches, that’s how good they are!; lastly, the reason why I have my “I” friend on speed dial – they have the best jokes! Remember that an Inspirer is typically renowned for his/her sense of humor!

On the less brighter side, such individuals may take things quite personally, because they have a bit too much concern for other people’s feelings. This can also make them want to withdraw in their own little corner if they feel rejected.

Remember when I said that “I’s” make friends quickly? Well, the downside is that these relationships can many times be superficial, so don’t go off thinking you’ve found your soulmate just yet!

Want tips for relating with an “I” personality type? Well, here they are:

Don’t address them with sir/madam or any other formal approaches

Relax and try to act friendly

Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings

Keep the conversation light

Give written details (you know how forgetful they can be when caught up in the moment!)

What you should expect from an Influencer:

constant, yet unintentional attempts to persuade you of things

need to be in the center of attention

idealized images of themselves and of the people around them

vulnerability to perceived rejection

real team spirit

According to Integrity Works Coaching, 25-30% of the population identifies with this personality type.

Remember … if you have strong I-Inspiring traits (or are in “I-mode”):

Get organized! It can be a challenge to get and stay organized if you are involved in a million things. Here is a simple way to be more organized … make a list! We have heard Dr. Rohm (also an “I” personality style) say many times that “a short pencil is better than a long memory.” Working off of a list will help you to not forget important things that might otherwise get lost in your busy life.

Stay focused! You might get organized, but staying focused is its own challenge. Each item on your list needs some time and attention – in other words, some focus. We suggest that you use your list and keep it with you. Your list can have anything (or anyone) on it that is important to you. Pick one item on your list. Focus on it for an hour or two. As the saying goes, inch-by-inch, it is a cinch. Yard-by-yard, it’s hard.

Be credible. This is a really-really-really important tip. Really! If you want to foster good relationships with others, it will be largely determined by how much they feel that they can count on you doing what you say you will do. D-Dominant personality styles will expect you to do what you say immediately (like yesterday). You’ll make a great impression if you jump right on a task. D’s love that. C-Cautious personalty styles may not expect you to follow through right away, but they will want you to do exactly what you said since that is their expectation. You can delight them by meeting every checkbox on their mental list. S-Supportive personality styles will really appreciate having a sense that they can trust you. That is what being a friend is all about.

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Although “D” type people are direct and straightforward, they are not necessarily hasty. They think things through and do not dive head-in so that later, they can have regrets. A “D” personality will take responsibility for their action, as they have taken the best possible course of action. Other traits include: assertive, dynamic and efficient. Such an individual will not lose time to get to the bottom line. Highly motivated, ambitious and bright, this person will play detective as long as it takes in order to solve the problem!

If competing with a “D” person, be prepared for a hell of a race! Dominant people enjoy challenges and will most certainly rise to the occasion! That means they are goal-oriented and aim high; at the same time, they are very resourceful and adaptive, so they have a reputation of being formidable opponents.

Word of advice: never deprive a “D” personality type of their recognition or admiration! “D” people seek appreciation for the effort they invest in their work, both professionally and personally.

Like everybody else, they have less pretty traits, too. Being in the spotlight is something they like a lot but unfortunately, they are capable of ruffling other people’s feathers to get there. If in charge, they can be very critical, reason why employees see them as bossy and overwhelming. I previously mentioned that they make good detectives…as a downside, they tend to pick on any small detail that doesn’t fit the global picture, so you should triple-check everything before handing it in!

According to Integrity Works Coaching, 10-15% of the population identifies with this personality type.

Are you wondering what’s the best way of relating with a “D” personality type? Well, here are some pointers:

Cut straight to the point! There’s no need for one-hour introduction!

Respect their need for autonomy

Clarify with them what the rules and expectation are

Show that you are self-sufficient and competent

Let them charge; they like it!

Because I wouldn’t want you wasting your time wishful-thinking, here’s what TO expect from a dominant type person:

they are excruciatingly blunt

demanding

no empathy

no sympathy

you won’t get much social interaction

Remember … if you have strong D-Dominant traits (or are in “D-mode”):

Use softer tones. Using firm or intense tones while speaking can create a challenge for those who prefer to communicate in a less intense way. Softer tones can make others feel more comfortable speaking with you.

Give people time to process and think. While you prefer being action-oriented while making decisions quickly, others may be more reserved and require time to think things through. Some people need time to process feelings, adjust to changes or get comfortable with a situation. It will require some patience on your part, but you will gain much more cooperation in the long run.

Don’t push. Many people will resist, shut down or disengage if they feel like they are being pushed to make decisions or take action. Smiling can go a long way to make people feel comfortable. Encouraging others and working alongside others can be very well received.